Funders: Medical Research Council (MRC), UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC), Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), Innovate UK
Funding Type: Fellowship
Opening Date: 29 February 2024, 9:00 AM UK time
Closing Date: 18 June 2024, 4:00 PM UK time
Overview: The Future Leaders Fellowships scheme aims to develop, retain, attract, and sustain research and innovation talent across the UKRI's remit. It supports early career researchers and innovators looking to establish independence or develop original and ambitious plans within a commercial setting.
Eligibility:
· Applicants must be early career researchers or innovators, based at a UK research organisation eligible for UKRI funding.
· There are no specific requirements for holding a PhD or based on the number of years post-PhD. Equivalent research or innovation experience is acceptable.
· Applicants should not have already achieved research or innovation independence.
· Both academic and non-academic host organisations are eligible, with a fixed cap on the number of applications per academic institution.
Funding Details:
· No minimum or maximum project cost specified.
· Projects can last up to four years, with the option to renew for up to three additional years.
· Fellowships are personal awards to develop as impactful research or innovation leaders.
Scope:
· Encourages applications across UKRI’s remit, including arts, humanities, social sciences, and critical technologies.
· Supports diverse career paths, including those returning from a career break, wishing to work part-time, or transitioning between sectors.
· International collaborations are encouraged, with flexibility for fellows to engage in various activities to support their objectives.
Application Caps:
· Academic institutions are subject to application caps; non-academic organisations can apply freely.
Inclusive Selection Process:
· Host organisations are required to provide diversity monitoring templates and inclusive selection statements.
Salary and Support:
· The fellowship provides salary support, tapering over time with increasing host organisation contribution.
· Encourages adherence to principles supporting career development and skills enhancement.
International Collaboration:
· Support for international applicants, partners, or collaborators, adhering to UKRI's guidance on international collaboration.
Call to Action: Early career researchers and innovators are encouraged to prepare for this competitive opportunity, ensuring alignment with career goals, innovation potential, and the fellowship's objectives.